SAIPAN — As the community continues to comprehend the challenges, opportunities, and complexities surrounding the recent prospect of deep sea mining approximately 130 miles east of the Marianas and 10,000-feet below the ocean’s surface, Governor David M. Apatang and Lt. Govervnor Dennis C. Mendiola are encouraging the public to participate in the federal comment process for a Bureau of Ocean Energy Management request for information and interest tied to offshore minerals.
While the governor’s office has yet to state a position on the subject, top officials said the BOEM request is an initial step that could inform a potential future lease sale for critical minerals on the Outer Continental Shelf offshore the CNMI, with the public comment deadline extended to Jan. 12, 2026.
After securing a few hundred comments, the Office of the Governor will host a town hall meeting on Saipan next Tuesday, Dec. 23, at 5 p.m. at the Governor Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe to provide information and receive community input regarding the RFI.
Apatang, Mendiola urge CNMI public comments on BOEM seabed mineral leasing RFI; town hall Dec. 23
SAIPAN — As the community continues to comprehend the challenges, opportunities, and complexities surrounding the recent prospect of deep sea mining approximately 130 miles east of the Marianas and 10,000-feet below the ocean’s surface, Governor David M. Apatang and Lt. Govervnor Dennis C. Mendiola are encouraging the public to participate in the federal comment process for a Bureau of Ocean Energy Management request for information and interest tied to offshore minerals.
While the governor’s office has yet to state a position on the subject, top officials said the BOEM request is an initial step that could inform a potential future lease sale for critical minerals on the Outer Continental Shelf offshore the CNMI, with the public comment deadline extended to Jan. 12, 2026.
After securing a few hundred comments, the Office of the Governor will host a town hall meeting on Saipan next Tuesday, Dec. 23, at 5 p.m. at the Governor Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe to provide information and receive community input regarding the RFI.